Richard L. Blood Jr., 84, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2024 after a courageous battle with Corticobasal Degeneration. He was surrounded by the love of his family. Richard was born in Holyoke, son of the late Bernadette (Chretien) and Richard L. Blood Sr. Rick worked professionally in research and sales at James River Graphics for many years before retiring. He grew up in South Hadley and graduated from South Hadley High School in 1958. Rick also graduated from Holyoke Community College in 1966 before furthering his studies at UMASS. A proud veteran, he served in the Air Force where he ran a hospital lab in Germany. Rick loved Cape Cod, sailing, skiing, golf, but more than anything, his family. Rick leaves behind his loving wife of 55 years, Pat (Fleming) Blood of Chicopee, a daughter, Kate Cook of Pleasantville, NY, son, David Blood and husband Mauro Brito of South Hadley, granddaughter, Amanda Colletta and husband Matt of Pleasantville, NY, two great-grandchildren, Noel and Lila Colletta, two sisters; Nancy Ellis and husband Joe of Barrington, NH and Mary Paris and husband Bill Woolam of Alexandria, VA, brother-in law, Michael Fleming and wife Marcia Petri, sister-in-law, Sheila Fleming and partner Walter Solzak, and many other nieces, nephews, and friends. Calling hours will be held for Rick at the O'Brien Family Funeral Home, 33 Lamb St. South Hadley, MA 01075 from 11:30-1pm on Wednesday, October 9 th . Following the calling hours there will be a graveside service at the Massachusetts Veteran's Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main St. Agawam, MA 01001at 2pm. For more information, please visit obrienfamilyfh.com